What are you working on?

I manage a collaborative innovation space called UNSW Launch. Based on Northbourne Avenue, the space is filled with Defence and Security start-ups and SMEs working on creative solutions to support Australia’s national interest.

Why is innovation important to you?

Innovation improves our lives and life as we know it. Innovation is a necessary aspect of all businesses – it helps them grow and improve and this ultimately changes the economic, social and cultural fabric of our society. I’m particularly excited about innovation in the defence and security industries because Australia already shows leadership in this area and there are so many applications for these innovations in other sectors.

What drives you to make a difference?

I’m driven by a desire to bring people together from across the innovation ecosystem.

Do you have any advice for getting more women into the innovation ecosystem?

Push yourself to be in situations that may feel new or uncomfortable. You have the skills and expertise to be part of the innovation ecosystem. Society benefits as a whole when women play an active role in this area.

What are you proud of right now?

I’m proud of the start-ups and SMEs at UNSW who have shown incredible growth and success since we opened in 2019.